Rising Stars: Meet Pat Simms of Youngstown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Pat Simms.

Hi Pat, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
While watching e-bikes glide along the Sarasota coastline on a family vacation, I had a flash of inspiration. I ordered our first two bikes before the flight home even landed. What started as a vacation spark has grown into a community staple; today, we manage 26 rentals and 12 test riders across two locations within Mill Creek MetroParks. Beyond the ride, we are dedicated advocates for bicycle safety and better infrastructure throughout our region.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Growth often comes with challenges. In 2023, we faced a pivotal legal hurdle regarding our home-based operations. Despite the personal hardship of losing my mother during that same period, we stood our ground to protect the service we provide to the MetroParks. Winning that appeal in the winter of 2023 was a victory not just for us, but for the local riders who rely on us. We’ve emerged with a renewed focus on advocacy and infrastructure for the city we love.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
With over 20 years of management and customer service experience, I believe true hospitality is the missing ingredient in modern business. While other e-bikes are often left on a sidewalk for you to figure out alone, Cruise the Creek offers a personal experience from start to finish. We provide every rider with a full tutorial and a guided practice session to ensure they feel confident and safe. To make the journey even more seamless, we’ve created a custom Adventure Map and Audio Tour —taking the guesswork out of navigating the park system so you can focus entirely on the ride, or get educated on a peaceful hike through nature.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Advocacy. Advocacy. Advocacy. It has been the true lifeline of our success.

Never in a million years did I imagine myself at the center of a national debate (Electric Bikes)—especially as someone with no previous background in cycling. But I quickly realized I wasn’t alone. I found a community of others on a similar journey, and together, we turned a solo struggle into a collective movement. By forming groups and non-profits centered on our shared vision, we moved from ‘Me’ to ‘WE.’ We aren’t just fighting for bikes; we are fighting to keep the dreams of local entrepreneurs and the accessibility of our parks and city alive.

Pricing:

• Rentals – $25 for the 1st Hour,$10 each Additonal Hour
• Sales -E-Bikes Range from $659 – $2499
• Rent To Own – Starting at $50- Bi-Weekly

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cruisethecreek.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cruisethecreek_ebike_rental
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cruisethecreek
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cruisethecreek
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cruise-the-creek-youngstown-2